Be Proud to Be

Proud. Think about that word. Proud. I don't mean in the gaudy or stuck-up sense. I mean in the accomplishment sense. The feeling of confidence and joy for who you are and what you've done, as well as the characteristics and accomplishments of those around you. I mean in the sense that "something good has been done here". And yet, sometimes that pride is restricted.

Why is it okay to be proud of your photography skills? But not your ability to save enough money to pay for your child's college education? Why is it okay to be proud of your athletic accomplishments? But not your academic ones? Why is it ok to be proud of your family's heritage? Unless you came from northern Europe? Why are some things socially accepted, and others not?

I agree, we should not go around bragging about how great we are. But that does not mean you are not great. Every once in awhile, let yourself "Be Proud to Be". Proud to Be an artist. Proud to Be a graduate student. Proud to Be a friend. Proud to Be YOU.

Everyone has their weaknesses and downfalls. But everyone has something to offer. I knew a kid in high school who had to retake classes, wasn't very athletic, and partied hard. And yet the two years I had English class with him, he made me laugh every day. He effortlessly became friends with someone who had completely different morals than him. How many people can say they have that ability? That's something to be proud of.

Another example: My mom did not graduate from college. And yet if there was a degree called "society engineer" she would win a nobel prize. I swear she can walk into any building and tell you how to improve the flow of people. She can organize an event for hundreds of people without forgetting a single detail. And while doing both these things she can make you feel like you matter more than anyone else. That is something to be proud of.

So here is my "Proud to Be": I am proud to be a Christian. I am proud to study in a technical field. I am proud to be a wife. I am proud of my love of travel. I am just simply proud of myself.

It's okay to share what you are proud of. Praise doesn't always have to come from the outside. Seek for improvement, but don't forget to look how far you've come. It's not about comparisons, it's about simply Being. Being something great. Doing something great. And praising those who cannot find something great about themselves.

The small things, like the big, make you who you are. So for just a moment, allow yourself to simply be proud. I guarantee you've earned it.